The Kerala Government has approved projects worth INR 6.64 crore to boost its Responsible Tourism (RT) initiative for 2024-25, focusing on sustainability and inclusiveness across key destinations like Kumarakom and Beypore. The Responsible/Resilient Tourism project will receive INR 1.81 crore, while INR 1.15 crore has been allocated for the Beypore Integrated RT Development Project.
Tourism Minister P A Mohamed Riyas emphasised the importance of RT in Kerala’s tourism future, noting recent national awards won by projects in Kanthalloor, Kadalundi, and Kumarakom for rural and agri-tourism excellence.
INR 1 crore has been earmarked for RT promotion and marketing activities, while INR 90.99 lakh will fund phase two of the RT Mission Society projects. The RT initiative will benefit destinations across the state, including Valiyaparamba, Dharmadam, and Thirunelli.
Additionally, INR 38.10 lakh has been allocated for training programmes at the RT Mission Society Training Centre in Kumarakom, which will focus on integrating digital marketing and AI in tourism, along with training for community leaders and tourism promoters.
Since its inception in 2008, Kerala’s RT initiative has expanded into a large grassroots network, benefiting over 1.5 lakh families and significantly contributing to sustainable and inclusive tourism development across the state.